Jadon Sancho returns to form in style as Borussia Dortmund thrash Paderborn

Jadon Sancho made a stunning return to form, as he netted a hat-trick in Borussia Dortmund’s dominant win over Paderborn.

After a calf injury saw him start the previous three games on the bench, Jadon Sancho made his return to the starting lineup in Borussia Dortmund’s 6-1 win over Paderborn. While he still appeared in each of the previous games, he never really looked fully match fit, and was not at his sharpest.

Looking fit once against today, Sancho reminded everyone just what he is capable of, with a hat-trick in the big win, showing his importance to the Black and Yellows.

Following Thorgan Hazard’s opener, Sancho quickly added the second for Dortmund. It was a simple finish but a great back post run to get on the end of Julian Brandt’s cross after the two were sent in behind. He celebrated the goal by removing his jersey and revealed an undershirt with “Justice for George Floyd” written on it, a powerful message of solidarity from the 20 year old.

The second goal was even better and came at a crucial time in the game. Paderborn had just pulled within one from the penalty spot, and potentially set up a close finish to the game. Sancho put that worry away quickly however, scoring his second goal just two minutes later. Hazard cut the ball back to Sancho on the edge of the box, and the Englishman found the net with his left foot just as three defenders were about to close in on him. A great finish considering the low time on ball, and it being on his weaker foot.

In stoppage time, Sancho went on to net Dortmund’s sixth and secured his first career hat trick in the process. After being played in on goal by Mateo Morey, and with the defender opting to prevent the square pass to Hazard, Sancho had the easy task of scoring the break away. Although it was comfortable in the end, Sancho’s offensive spark opened up the game, and it was certainly needed with Erling Haaland sidelined for today’s fixture.

The hat-trick took him to 17 goals to go along with his 16 assists in the Bundesliga this season, and he also became the youngest player reach 30 career goals in the German top flight.

Beyond the goals, Sancho heavily influenced the game in Borussia Dortmund’s favour. His dummy at the end of the first half set up Julian Brandt with a great chance, that the German international probably should have done better with. For the team’s fourth goal, his give-and-go with Hazard initiated the attack that would eventually see Achraf Hakimi put the game out of reach.

He led the team with chances created with five, and successful take ons with three. It was a very efficient performance, as all three of the Englishmen’s shots found the back of the net.

If anyone had their doubts or critiques recently, Sancho answered them perfectly with a man of the match performance, leading Borussia Dortmund to an emphatic win.